News From the Chair

Spring 2018

Christie L. Morse, MDChair, Foundation Advisory Board

Mark Your Calendars for the 2018 Orbital Gala at the Chicago Cultural Center

Without our Foundation donors, the Academy could not lead change in ophthalmology management, clinical care and education. We thank you for your years of support and would like to bolster our reach in the community with your help. We welcome you to join us for the 15th annual Orbital Gala, Oct. 28 at the Chicago Cultural Center. This year’s dazzling, ‘60s-themed gala will be one to remember, with a reception dinner, silent auction and live music under Louis Comfort Tiffany’s stunning glass dome.

Three new members have joined the Foundation’s Advisory Board. These individuals will help guide the Foundation in strategically building and using its resources to achieve the Academy’s mission. I’m pleased to introduce: George B. Bartley, MD, current editor-in-chief for the Academy’s flagship Ophthalmology® journal; F. Michael Ball, CEO of Alcon; and Thomas Frinzi, worldwide president of surgical, Johnson & Johnson Vision.

Dr. Bartley is a respected ophthalmologist who also has extensive editorial experience, having authored approximately 250 professional publications. He continues to position Ophthalmology as a key source for groundbreaking clinical research.

Mr. Ball began his career in health care in 1981. Soon he led strategy and execution of global commercial activities for a wide range of eye care pharmaceuticals, over-the-counter products and surgical devices. His insights as past CEO of Hospira, a world leader in injectable pharmaceuticals and infusion devices, makes him a valuable contributor.

With a wide portfolio covering cataract and refractive surgery, Mr. Frinzi produces immeasurable insights on the state of ophthalmology. He won the 2015 Ophthalmology Innovation Award at the Ophthalmology Innovation Summit and continues to apply his leadership and expertise to advancing surgical systems for eye care.

Partners for Sight: Our Focus on the Future

Join an elite group of funders by becoming a Partners for Sight donor. As a member, you can choose to support any Academy program of your choice. Whatever your passion — education, public service, ophthalmic history or helping colleagues in developing countries — we have an Academy program that needs your support.

“When I donate to the Foundation, I’m honoring all of the ophthalmologists who worked to develop such a wonderful profession. Even with many organizations requesting time and money, the Foundation is always a priority. When I give, I show that I value the Academy’s leadership in the field and its members for helping patients to face some of their toughest challenges.”- Paul P. Lee, MD, JD, Ann Arbor, Mich.

Partners for Sight donors provide access to medical textbooks in developing nations, help seniors obtain free or low-cost exams through Eyecare America and preserve the history of ophthalmology for future generations.

1896 Legacy Society — A Great Way to Give Back

The 1896 Legacy Society, named for the year the Academy was founded, is a special group of donors who have included the Foundation in their estate plans through cash gifts, bequests or other planned gifts. It would be an honor to have you join the ranks of this prestigious group.

William L. Rich III, MD, FACS says, "I joined the Academy's 1896 Legacy Society because I believe in giving back. I’m leaving more than 25 percent of my estate to help support Academy programs that are important to me and the future of the profession. I urge other members to consider making a bequest.”

I encourage you to consider establishing a legacy gift and joining the ranks of this great group. It’s a convenient, meaningful way to support the Academy programs you care about and may also provide tax benefits. What’s more, members receive year-round acknowledgment and personalized support from the Foundation.

Cheers to all fellow ophthalmologists and eyecare professionals! I always welcome questions or feedback from you. Feel free to reach me anytime at cmorse@aao.org.